Democrats win full control of Congress

Democrats have secured control of both the House and the Senate, according to an analysis by The Associated Press. This marks the first time the party has held both chambers since 2023. The shift ends the Republican majority in the Senate, which previously stood at 53 to 47.

Voters in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Kansas, and Iowa flipped their Senate races to the Democratic column. Democrats also retained a Senate seat in Georgia. In the House, Democratic candidates won key districts in Florida that the state legislature had redrew to favor Republicans. Four Republican incumbents in Pennsylvania were also defeated in competitive districts.

The campaign focused on the high cost of living and perceived public corruption. President Trump's approval ratings hovered below 40 percent in the closing weeks. He traveled the campaign trail urging Republican voters to act as if he were on the ballot. Despite these efforts, the GOP lost its Senate majority.

Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Calif., who is expected to lead the House Oversight committee, posted a statement to X. He wrote, "LAWYER UP." Democrats have signaled an agenda of investigations into agency independence and the business interests of the president and his family. They plan to scrutinize the Justice Department and Homeland Security.

President Trump retains his veto power, which he says he will use often. In an interview with the Pod Force One podcast, he stated, "I'll become Mr. Veto," adding that the parties would likely make deals. Legislation passed by Congress will require his support to become law. This dynamic may limit immediate policy changes related to affordability.

Democrats must work with Republicans to pass 12 annual appropriations bills to fund the government. Control of the Senate will also slow the confirmation of Trump-nominated judges. Cabinet nominees will need the support of several Democrats to take their posts permanently. The new Congress will be sworn in in January.

Senate Minority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., addressed the loss in a post to X. He stated, "Senate Republicans will not stand idly by as the far-left, socialist wing of the Democrat Party attempts to unwind everything we've done." Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said Democrats were ready to lower costs and rein in chaos.